Rachmaninov: "Paganini" Rhapsody; 6 Preludes; "Corelli" Variations

Immerse yourself in the timeless elegance of Sergei Rachmaninoff's masterful compositions with this captivating album, released on January 1, 1998, under the prestigious Deutsche Grammophon label. Spanning a concise yet fulfilling hour and nine minutes, this collection showcases Rachmaninoff's unparalleled prowess in classical piano music, offering a rich tapestry of emotional depth and technical brilliance.

The album opens with Rachmaninoff's iconic "Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini, Op. 43," a virtuosic display of 24 variations on Niccolò Paganini's theme, each variation a testament to Rachmaninoff's inventive genius. Following this monumental work, the album presents six preludes, each a miniature masterpiece that explores a range of moods and emotions. From the hauntingly beautiful "Prélude in C Sharp Minor, Op. 3, No. 2" to the majestic "Prélude in B Flat, Op. 23, No. 2," these preludes demonstrate Rachmaninoff's ability to convey profound sentiment in brief, intimate pieces.

The album concludes with "Variations on a Theme of Corelli, Op. 42," a lesser-known but equally captivating work that showcases Rachmaninoff's ability to transform a simple theme into a rich, varied, and deeply expressive composition. Throughout the album, Rachmaninoff's playing is marked by its lyrical beauty, technical precision, and emotional resonance, making this a collection that will captivate both seasoned classical music enthusiasts and newcomers alike.